Participate in liquor vend auctions without fear: Addl Chief Secy

Additional Chief Secretary (Home) Sumita Misra today urged all potential bidders to participate in the upcoming liquor vend auctions without fear, assuring them of full administrative support and security. "The government stands firmly behind law-abiding bidders. No individual should feel threatened or discouraged from participating in a legitimate government process. We will ensure full security to every participant," Misra stated.

She was chairing a law and order review meeting with Deputy Commissioners (DCs), Superintendents of Police (SPs), and District Excise and Taxation Commissioners (DETCs) from Yamunanagar, Kurukshetra, Jind, Hisar, Rohtak, Karnal, and Ambala districts. She stated that the government would not tolerate any form of threat or interference in the upcoming auctions.

Taking serious note of reports indicating potential collusion between local miscreants and anti-social elements to intimidate participants, Misra directed police and intelligence agencies to immediately identify such individuals. To enhance security, she directed district intelligence units to prepare detailed profiles of habitual troublemakers and maintain surveillance on their movements. The police have been told to watch for suspicious people or vehicles moving around.

To build confidence among potential bidders, Misra directed the DCs and SPs to hold direct dialogues with them. These meetings will serve as platforms to address security concerns and reassure participants of the government's unwavering support. "DCs and SPs must actively reach out, listen to concerns, and provide assurances that robust law and order arrangements are in place. The message must be loud and clear: no one will be allowed to derail this process," she stressed.

Reiterating the state’s zero-tolerance policy, Misra warned that any laxity on the part of local administration or police would be viewed seriously. "The integrity of the auction process is non-negotiable. If any officer is found negligent or complicit, strict departmental action will follow."

She further emphasised the importance of video surveillance, the deployment of additional police forces in vulnerable zones, and close coordination with Excise Department officers to ensure the smooth and transparent conduct of the auctions.